Wes Audio NGLeveler is a mono, fully analog optical compressor in LA-2A style, in ng500 format (500-series module) with full digital integration — an analog signal path with an optical resistor element (T4 opto-resistor), automation, and recall via VST/AU, USB, and MIDI with zero digital processing in the audio path. NGLeveler is a direct evolution of the classic LA-2A architecture, with the addition of a digital control layer that preserves the full optical compression character of the Teletronix/UREI original. A 2-slot 500-series module; available as a single unit or a matched pair. Stepper motors or relay circuits move physical potentiometers in response to DAW automation.
Optical element and program-dependent compression
The T4 element (opto-resistor) in the NGLeveler operates identically to the original LA-2A: an LED driven by the detection signal illuminates a photoresistor, which controls the attenuation of the signal in the main path. The response time of the photocell and its return to the dark state are determined by the physical characteristics of the T4 element and the character of the material being processed — hence program-dependence: with complex, dynamic music the release is slower; with quieter material it is faster. The Peak Reduction control (the equivalent of Threshold in VCA compressors) and the Gain (makeup gain) on the front panel correspond directly to the classic LA-2A operation. Two modes: Compress and Limit — Compress delivers softer, more musical compression with a natural release; Limit engages an additional FET circuit for harder peak control. A VU meter with a switchable indication mode (output / gain reduction). Transformer-balanced input and output — characteristic analog coloration from the audio transformers.
DAW integration and ng500 format
The NGLeveler VST/AU plug-ins handle DAW automation and recall: stepper motors or relay circuits move the physical Peak Reduction and Gain potentiometers in response to plug-in parameter changes. Recall is accurate to 16-bit per parameter, guaranteeing identical physical settings at every session recall. The ng500 format (2-slot 500-series module) allows installation in any API-compatible 500-series rack; modules can be purchased in pairs and combined into a stereo optical compressor. Identical optical circuitry in both channels of a pair guarantees consistent stereo compression character. NGLeveler is one of the ng500 line modules from Wes Audio — alongside _DIONE, _RHEA, Timbre, SuperCarrier II, and _Prometheus, available as 500-series modules or in Starlight desktop versions.
KEY FEATURES
- Mono optical compressor LA-2A style, 2-slot 500-series module, with full digital integration
- T4 optical element (opto-resistor) — program-dependent, natural compression character
- Modes: Compress (soft, musical) and Limit (harder limiting with FET circuit)
- Transformer-balanced input and output — analog coloration
- Peak Reduction and Gain (makeup) controls on front panel
- VU meter with switchable mode: output / gain reduction
- Full DAW automation (VST/AU) with physical potentiometer movement
- Full preset recall 16-bit per parameter via USB and MIDI
- Zero digital processing in the signal path
- Format: ng500, 2-slot module (API 500-series standard)
- Available as single module or matched pair (stereo)
- Identical optical circuitry in matched pairs — consistent stereo compression character
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Type: mono optical compressor LA-2A style, 2-slot 500-series module
- Signal path: fully analog, opto (T4 element)
- Detection element: T4 opto-resistor (LED + photoresistor)
- Modes: Compress / Limit
- Transformer: transformer-balanced input and output
- Controls: Peak Reduction, Gain (makeup)
- VU meter: output / GR, switchable
- Digital integration: VST/AU, USB, MIDI
- Automation: 16-bit per parameter, physical potentiometer movement
- I/O: balanced (500-series standard)
- Power: from 500-series rack (API standard)
- Format: ng500, 2-slot (API 500-series compatible)
